Tourism In Paris Statistics 2024: Your Quick Travel Guide To The City Of Lights

 

When it comes to a city as iconic, infamous, and immortalized as Paris, capturing the essence of what it feels like to travel there in one article is impossible. Where should I start? The food? The art? The creepy yet oddly famous catacombs filled with skulls? It’s almost as overwhelming as walking through the City Of Lights itself. Almost. I guess I’ll start with being real. Tourism in Paris can be intense. 

Paris (including Île-de-France region) tourist numbers in 2019 reached over 50 million, and in 2023, they were a whopping 47.5 million.  Such a popular destination can be as overwhelming as it is exciting. With so much information out there, it's easy to feel a bit dizzy trying to piece together the perfect itinerary. So before you think about tackling the ultimate Paris itinerary, or, for the time conscious and stress-allergic, hiring a Paris tour guide, let’s go over some quick tips and facts that’ll take the rougher edges out of your Parisian adventure.  

The King Of Statistics: Paris’ Tourism Numbers At A Glance 

Okay, so Paris is not just hype. Seriously.  It's the real deal, and these numbers prove that every year, the fascination with the city so famous it’s known by three slogans (City of Light, City Of Light, City Of Art, and fashion capital, if you’re into that kind of high life) hasn’t slowed down. 

So what are the tourism statistics in Paris? In 2023, 47.5 million domestic and international tourists visited the world-renowned city.  If you can believe it, over 50 million tourists arrived in Paris and the Île-de-France region in 2019, making it the most visited destination in Europe that year. A title the city continues to take yer after year. 

It’s simple to put two and two together and see that tourism is a big deal for Paris, but what percentage of Paris GDP is tourism? Surprisingly, it’s only 3.5% of the capital’s economy, but don’t let that fool you. Paris was named the world’s most powerful city destination thanks to a travel and tourism sector that was worth 35.6 billion USD in 2022. That’s post pandemic. Crazy. 

So, which countries visit Paris the most? Well, besides French residents, who are just as in love with this city as we all are, these are the countries that visited Paris the most in 2022 by international arrival percentage

1. Belgium (11%)
2. United Kingdom (10%)
3. United States (9%)
4. Netherlands (8%)
5. Germany (8%)

 

Paris Tourism Quick Facts 

 

• 47.5 million: The number of domestic and international tourists in Paris in 2023
• 7.9% - The 2023 percentage increase for international overnight hotel stays in Paris, compared to 2022.
• 8.9 million: The number of visitors to the Louvre Museum in 2023, the world's largest museum. That’s  28.7 thousand visitors per opening day!
• 3.5% - The amount that travel and tourism contributes to the capital city’s economy. 

Travel Trivia: So with all of this talk about staggering stats, is Paris the most visited city in the world? As of 2023, no, it isn’t! Istanbul is the most visited city in the world for 2023. It had the most international arrivals, but Paris was named the most desired destination.

Exploring Paris: The City’s Lesser Known Treasures

Before I bombard you with the classic Parisian sites (the Eiffel Tower & Champs Élysée aren’t going anywhere, trust me), let’s take a look at pockets of beauty and quirkiness in one of the most toured cities in modern existence. 

• Promenade Plantée: A precursor to New York's High Line, this elevated park stretches for nearly 5 kilometers along an old railway line. It's a serene escape from the city's hustle and offers stunning views of Parisian rooftops.
• Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature: This quirky museum blends art, taxidermy, and nature exhibits in a beautifully restored mansion. It's an unexpected delight for those interested in the strange and wonderful. If you’re not a fan of permanently stationary animals, this one won’t be for you.
• Le Marché des Enfants Rouges: Tucked away in the Marais, this is Paris's oldest covered market. It’s a foodie paradise where you can sample dishes from around the world while soaking in the local atmosphere.
• La Pagode: A hidden cinematic gem, this beautiful Japanese-style pagoda in the 7th arrondissement serves as an art house cinema. Its stunning architecture makes it a unique spot for movie buffs.
• Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: This lesser-known park offers dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and a charming temple perched on a hill. It's perfect for a peaceful afternoon picnic away from the tourist crowds.
• Musée de la Vie Romantique: Nestled in the 9th arrondissement, this museum is dedicated to the Romantic era and includes personal items from literary and artistic figures. The garden café is a perfect spot for tea and reflection.
• Le Petit Ceinture: This abandoned railway has been transformed into a lush green walkway. It’s a secret garden for urban explorers, offering a unique perspective on Paris's natural beauty.
  Cimetière des Chiens: One of the world’s oldest pet cemeteries, this charming spot in Asnières-sur-Seine is the final resting place of beloved pets, including Rin Tin Tin. It's an oddly heartwarming and tranquil visit.

Paris’ Greatest Hits: The Most Popular Destinations, Foods & Experiences

So why is Paris so popular for tourists? These top destinations, foods and activities answer that question. 

The World In A City: Paris’ Most Visited Sites 
From the Louvre to Disneyland, to the Eiffel Tower, these are Paris’ most visited attractions.

• Disneyland Paris -. Yes, Disneyland Paris is the second most visited tour site in the city, with 14.8 million visitors!
• The Louvre Museum - Welcome to the largest art collection in the world. There’s way more here than the Mona Lisa. This place is such a big deal that in 2024 during the Paris Olympics, a daily ticket sales cap of 30,000 has been created, to keep a manageable flow of patrons.
• Versailles Palace - Only a grand palace that has been a throne to rulers, hunting grounds for the enthusiastic, and a museum to display 17th century opulence and beyond could attract 7.7 million visitors yearly.
• Eiffel Tower - This wouldn’t be an article about Paris if I didn’t mention the most iconic symbol a city has ever had. The Eiffel Tower is probably the first image that comes to mind when you think about Paris. You can get a full tour, joined by 6.2 million people yearly, or if you just want to say that you saw it, gaze at the statue from various points within the city.
• Pompidou Center - Talk about taking museum culture to the next level! The Pompidou center is a mind-bending experience that every architect lover should see at least once. If you do head there, you’ll be one of the 3.3 million yearly travelers that enjoys this site!
• Musee d’Orsay - With over 3.1 million visitors yearly, the Musee d’Orsay is one of France’s most beloved art collections, especially
• Catacombs of Paris - So why is a catacomb full of skulls one of the most famous destinations in Paris? Are we all dark and eerie people? Well, at least 500,000 people each year love to see the morbid burial grounds dreamt up by Paris officials looking to curb a serious public health crisis. 

 

The Kings and Queens of Culinary Art: Foods You Must Try In Paris 

• The Croissant: Flaky, buttery, and perfectly golden, the croissant is the quintessential Parisian breakfast pastry. Pair it with a café au lait for a true taste of Paris.
• Baguette: This iconic French bread is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. It's a staple for sandwiches, cheese plates, or just enjoyed with a smear of butter.
• Macarons: These delicate, colorful confections are as beautiful as they are delicious. Light, airy, and filled with a variety of ganaches or jams, they're a must-try sweet treat.
• Escargots de Bourgogne: These garlic and herb butter-bathed snails are a staple in French delicacy. Don’t be squeamish—they're surprisingly tasty and a true Parisian experience.
• Steak Frites: A simple yet classic dish, featuring a juicy steak served with crispy fries. It's the French answer to comfort food, perfect with a glass of red wine.
• Ratatouille: This hearty vegetable stew made famous by the animated film is a delightful mix of eggplant, zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes, often served with crusty bread.

 

For the Adventurous Eater: Foods to Try in Paris 

• Andouillette: Not for the faint of heart, or should I say intestines, this sausage is made from pork intestines and has a strong, distinct flavor. It's a culinary adventure for the brave foodie.
• Tête de Veau: This traditional dish features calf’s head, often served with a tangy sauce. It’s a unique and historic dish that offers a glimpse into classic French cuisine.
• Cuisses de Grenouille: Frog legs might sound bizarre, but they’re a delicacy in France. Often sautéed with garlic and parsley, they taste somewhat like chicken and are surprisingly delicious.
• Pieds de Cochon: Pig’s feet might not be everyone's cup of tea, but they're a beloved dish in Parisian bistros. Braised or roasted, they’re a tender and flavorful treat for the adventurous eater.

 

Tourism Fun Facts: What are 5 interesting facts about Paris? 

1. Eiffel Tower? No, Thank You: Though iconic today, it took Parisians a while for them to warm up to the idea of the big, imposing metal structure that now lights up the night sky.
2. Serious About Pastries: French pastries are excellent for a reason. There are laws that dictate who can be considered a boulangerie, aka pastry shop, and who isn’t. Some treats, as beautiful as they look, are not freshly made. They can be pre-packaged and frozen. How can you tell? A small star in the display notes above each pastry.
3. Born in Paris: Emma Watson aka Hermione Granger from the live action adaptation of the Harry Potter books was born in Paris! She is joined by screen legend Brigitte Bardot
4. Please Stop: Want to have a real adventure in Paris? Try looking for stop signs. I’ll save you the potential torture and reveal that it’s a wild goose chase, because there aren’t any.
5. Musical Metro: Whenever you see a performer in the metro, know that this spot has been well-earned. These performers go through an X-factor style audition process to earn the right to share their music with passengers. Only 100 lucky few are selected. 

 Life In La Ville Lumière: Things To Know For The Perfect Tour Of Paris 

There is an art to traveling through Paris. You’ve got to combine the right season, festivals, and of course, know how to get around and what to avoid. So let’s tackle all of that, shall we? 

Weather In The City Of Love: Navigating The Seasons 
If you were to offer a free trip to Paris to someone, the time they should travel wouldn’t be on their minds. But until some millionaire gives me the opportunity to see Paris no matter the time of year, I’m taking into consideration these high and low seasons, and you probably should too. 

Spring (March to May)
Ah, spring in Paris! The city blooms with cherry blossoms, and love is literally in the air. Oh yeah, carry an umbrella because May is the wettest month in terms of rain. 

• Weather: Mild and pleasant, with occasional rain showers. Perfect trench coat weather. Average temperatures are between 9-15 °C (48-59°F).
• Crowds: Moderate. Easter and school holidays can bring in more tourists, but it's generally manageable.

Things to Do

• Do: Stroll through Jardin des Tuileries or Luxembourg Gardens, where the flowers are in full bloom.
• Avoid: Standing under trees in full blossom with your mouth open. Tempting as it is, it’s not a buffet.

Summer (June to August)
Summer in Paris is hot, lively, and CROWDED. It’s also not as full of locals, so if you’re looking for authentic Parisian encounters, this wouldn’t be the best time. If you’re cool with crowds, get ready for sunny days, long nights, and lots of ice cream.

• Weather: Warm to hot, with temperatures occasionally soaring into the high 30s°C (90s°F).
• Crowds: High. This is peak tourist season, especially in July and August.

Things to Do

• Do: Enjoy open-air cinemas, river cruises on the Seine, and picnics at Champ de Mars with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
• Avoid: The metro during rush hour. It's like a sauna with strangers. Also, skip the major tourist attractions midday unless you love lines.

Autumn (September to November)
Autumn paints Paris in hues of gold, red, and orange. The city gets quieter, and the weather is just right for cozying up with a good book.

• Weather: Cool and crisp, perfect for layers. Think scarves and light jackets. Averages of 16 - 7°C (61-45°F)
• Crowds: Moderate to low. September still sees some tourists, but by October, it’s calmer.

Things to Do

• Do: Explore the city's many museums, like the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay. Wander through the autumn leaves in Parc Monceau.
• Avoid: The Seine’s banks during early morning runs unless you enjoy foggy, slippery paths.

Winter (December to February)
Winter turns Paris into a twinkling wonderland. It's less crowded, colder, but utterly charming.

• Weather: Cold, sometimes dipping below freezing. Snow is rare but magical when it happens.
• Crowds: Low. Except around Christmas and New Year’s, when festive markets and lights draw more visitors.

Things to Do

• Do: Ice skate at Hôtel de Ville, sip hot chocolate at Angelina's, and enjoy the Christmas markets.
• Avoid: Climbing the Eiffel Tower on particularly cold or windy days. The view is great, but frostbite isn’t.

 

Best Time to Visit: Weather Wise

• When to Go: Late spring (April to early June) and early autumn (September to early October). These periods offer mild weather and manageable crowds.
• When to Avoid: Mid-summer (July and August) if you dislike heat and large crowds. Also, be wary of Christmas and New Year’s if you’re not a fan of festive hustle and bustle.

 

Now you can pack your bags wisely, plan according to your crowd tolerance, and enjoy the City of Lights in all its seasonal splendor!

Transport: Getting Around Paris (How To & How Not To) 

Navigating Paris can be as enchanting as its art and architecture—if you know the right ways to get around. Here's your no-nonsense, slighly wittyguide to touring Paris without turning your trip into some transport trauma.

The Best Ways to Tour Paris

1. Metro Magic: The Paris Metro is your best friend. With 16 lines and over 300 stations, it's a fast and efficient way to zip around the city. Trains run frequently, and you'll find a station within a few minutes' walk no matter where you are. Plus, navigating the Metro is a breeze with clear signage and helpful maps. Bonus points if you manage to snag a seat during rush hour—consider it a Parisian miracle.
2. Bus Bliss: Paris buses offer a scenic alternative to the Metro. They might be slower due to traffic, but they give you a chance to see the city above ground. The bus routes cover places the Metro might miss, and the night buses (Noctilien) ensure you’re never stranded after a late night out.
3. Vélib' Ventures: For the adventurous, the Vélib' bike-sharing system is a fantastic way to explore Paris at your own pace. With numerous docking stations across the city, you can pick up and drop off bikes easily. It's eco-friendly, good exercise, and offers the freedom to weave through charming streets and along the Seine. Just remember, Parisian drivers are a breed of their own, so stay alert!
4.  Walking Wonders: Sometimes, the best way to soak in the essence of Paris is on foot. Stroll through picturesque neighborhoods, discover hidden gems, and pause at quaint cafés for a coffee or a croissant. Walking is perfect for exploring areas like Montmartre, Le Marais, and the Latin Quarter. Plus, it’s free and great for working off all those delicious pastries.

 

The Worst Ways to Tour Paris

1. Car Calamities: Driving in Paris is best left to the locals. The traffic can be intense, parking is a nightmare, and deciphering the city’s one-way streets and roundabouts requires a level of patience and skill that most travelers prefer to leave at home. If you must drive, prepare for an adventure—and not necessarily the fun kind.
2. Taxi Troubles: While taxis are available, they can be pricey and prone to getting stuck in traffic. During peak hours, finding a free taxi can be like hunting for a needle in a haystack. Ride-hailing apps like Uber offer an alternative, but they still face the same traffic woes. Save your euros and frustration for a more relaxing transport mode. Save the private car tours four outside the city center.
3.  Tourist Traps on Wheels: Double-decker tourist buses might seem convenient, but they’re often overcrowded, slow, and expensive. You’ll spend more time waiting for the next bus or stuck in traffic than actually sightseeing. Plus, you miss out on the more intimate, off-the-beaten-path experiences that make Paris so special.

 

In summary, the Metro, buses, bikes, and your own two feet are the keys to unlocking the best of Paris. Avoid the pitfalls of cars, taxis, and tourist buses, and you’ll find your Parisian adventure to be as smooth as a glass of Bordeaux. Bon voyage!

The Center of Etiquette: Dos & Don’ts In Paris 
I know the French have a reputation for taking on the Laissez-faire lifestyle (like the fact that public drinking is legal), but even they have some social rules that should be followed. What are some dos and don’ts in Paris? Keep reading…

Dos:

• Do Be Picky With Pastry: Head to boulangeries instead of plain old bakeries. Boulangeries bake bread from scratch, making every croissant a flaky masterpiece. Your taste buds will thank you!
• Do Walk: Embrace your inner flâneur (that’s fancy French for aimless stroller). The best way to soak in Paris is on foot. Cars are for chumps, and taxis are only for when you’re lugging around your entire wardrobe.
• Do Picnic Like a Pro: Grab some cheese, a baguette, and a bottle of wine from a local market, then head to the nearest park. There’s nothing more Parisian than a picnic with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
• Do Speak a Little French: Even a simple "Bonjour" or "Merci" goes a long way. The locals will appreciate the effort, and you might just score a smile or two.

 

Don'ts:

• Don’t Eat/Buy Food Near Major Monuments: The Eiffel Tower is for selfies, not soufflés. Skip the overpriced tourist traps and follow the locals to hidden culinary gems.
• Don’t Stay in the Tourist Center: Avoid the constant crowds and overpriced restaurants. Instead, choose a charming neighborhood where you can soak up the true Parisian vibe without elbowing your way through selfie sticks.
• Don’t Skip the Metro: It’s fast, efficient, and an adventure in itself. Plus, you get to experience the thrill of navigating like a local. Bonus points if you master the art of metro door dodging.
• Don’t Ignore Café Culture: Don’t just grab and go. Sit down, sip slowly, and people-watch. Parisian cafés are where the magic happens—romances bloom, novels are written, and you can feel like a character in a French film.

Travel etiquette tip: Say Bonjour! Seriously, whenever you ask for directions, order a meal, or pretty much speak to anyone for any reason, say Bonjour, it’s highly expected and seen as a form of respect to greet someone first before asking for what you want/need. 

 

Travel Truth: How To Beat Paris Syndrome 
We all know the feeling. It’s the same feeling behind the disappointment you get when you order something online, and it comes to you looking a little different. 

Paris is amazing, yes, but it’s a megacity. Which means it has some megacity characteristics (dirt, trash, graffiti, little rodents). In case you didn’t know, Paris isn’t the 24/7 romance novel western media paints it as. It’s a city with people, so to avoid Paris syndrome, which is when people with unrealistic expectation land in Paris and become so disappointed by its reality that the trip s ruined

Here are some of the realities of this megacity to keep in mind. 

• Parisians like to light up - this city still has a lot of smokers, so if you come from a country where public smoking is nearly non-existent, this will be an adjustment. A serious adjustment.
• Ratatouille - I’m not talking about the sweet Pixar movie. I’m talking about rats. Much like New York or London, Paris has rats and some street trash in different areas. Pretty basic megacity trait.
• Vive la révolution - It’s no surprise that a city known for historic revolutions has a culture f protesting. Protests are common in certain parts of the city, so check for protests in the news, or talk to a Paris local guide about how to avoid protests when touring.
• Strong smells - Whether you’re in the underground metro, or walking past an alley, sometimes the smell of urine may waft past you. Don7t let it ruin your day, though! It could happen in any megacity. 

 

Staying Safe: The Paris Edition 

Let’s keep the reality check coming. While Paris is magical, it's not all fairytales and rose-colored strolls. Like any major city, it has its quirks and corners where you need to keep your wits about you. Here are some savvy safety tips to ensure your Parisian adventure is mishap-free:

1. Stay Street Smart: Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like the metro or tourist spots. Pickpockets are sneaky and swift, so keep your belongings close.
2. Avoid the Midnight Metro: The metro is a marvel of efficiency during the day, but late at night it can get a bit dodgy. Opt for a cab or a ride-share if you’re out after hours.
3. Guard Your Gadgets: That Insta-worthy shot of the Eiffel Tower can wait until you’re in a safe spot. Flashing expensive cameras or phones can make you a target. Snap away, but stay savvy.
4. Keep Copies of Important Documents: Losing your passport is a one-way ticket to stress-ville. Keep digital and physical copies of your ID, passport, and travel documents in separate locations.
5. Beware of Scams: If someone tries to tie a bracelet on your wrist or offers you a gold ring they "found" on the ground, politely decline and walk away. Scammers can be as plentiful as macarons.
6. Dress Like a Local: Blending in can help you avoid unwanted attention. Leave the fanny packs and oversized maps at home. You can also leave the expensive jewelry and labels. Paris isn’t a constant fashion show. The clothes you wear in your everyday life are enough.
7. Watch Your Wallet in Cafés: Parisians love their café culture, and so do opportunistic thieves. Keep your bag on your lap or looped around your chair leg, not hanging off the back.

 

Planning a trip to Paris doesn’t have to be a recipe for disaster. Forget the stress of cramming itineraries and missing out on hidden gems. Instead, let a local Paris guide turn your Parisian adventure into a seamless, unforgettable experience. Here’s why hiring a guide in Paris is a magnifique idea:

• Insider Knowledge: Guides know the best-kept secrets, from tucked-away bistros to the coolest street art spots. Skip the tourist traps and see the real Paris.
• Effortless Exploration: Navigate the labyrinthine streets and metro system with ease. No more staring at maps or arguing with Google Translate.
• Time-Saving Tips: Avoid the endless queues and overcrowded attractions. Your guide will help you skip the lines and maximize your time.
• Historical Context: Paris is steeped in history. A guide will bring the stories of Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and Montmartre to life, making your visit much richer.
• Tailored Experiences: Whether you're a foodie, art lover, or history buff, a guide can tailor your tour to your interests, ensuring a personal touch to your Parisian journey.

 

Conclusion
Still in love with Paris? Still want to see the City of Lights for yourself? Still worried about how to do it all? With a Paris tour guide by your side, your trip to Paris will be as smooth and delightful as a perfectly brewed café au lait. Bon voyage!